SAN DIEGO - SDSU student-athletes impacted the greater San Diego community this semester by focusing on community service and the importance of giving back. For the current academic year, SAAC selected the theme “Bigger Than Us” for its annual campaign. The theme represents how student-athletes can create change and positively impact a community larger than themselves.
“I am incredibly proud of our student-athletes for dedicating their time and energy to making a positive impact in the San Diego community, truly representing this year’s ‘Bigger Than Us’ theme,” said Danielle Kelly, Senior Associate Athletic Director, Student-Athlete Support Services. “This year’s community service efforts were elevated by the leadership and dedication of Raquel Orozco, academic advisor and student-athlete development assistant, who led our department’s community service initiatives and made a significant impact. Her commitment, along with our student-athletes’ passion for service, contributed to the highest number of community service hours we have ever recorded.”
Throughout the semester, student-athletes completed various community service projects that supported a wide range of individuals and organizations. From volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House to assisting with Green Elementary School’s jog-a-thon, they consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to serving others.
“I am incredibly proud of our student-athletes and their passion for giving back,” said Raquel Orozco, academic advisor and student-athlete development assistant. “It has been inspiring to see athletes from every sport step forward, commit to meaningful causes, and serve our community with purpose. Through this work, they are discovering their leadership potential and understanding that giving back is one of the most powerful forms of leadership. I am excited to continue supporting our student-athletes and connecting them with local organizations where they can serve, grow, and leave a lasting impact.”
In addition to participating in service events, SAAC hosted its first holiday donation drive at the end of the semester. The initiative collected a wide range of items, including clothing, nonperishable food, and toys. The drive received overwhelming support, allowing SAAC to donate more than 200 items to Monarch School.
“Witnessing firsthand the positive impact we as student-athletes have on various communities has been an absolute blessing,” said Katerina Senn, SAAC president and senior on the SDSU women’s soccer team. “Achieving 100% team participation and more than 1,000 hours of community service within a single semester reflects our strong commitment to service and a shared understanding of the importance of giving back. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve in this presidential role, assist in organizing these impactful initiatives, and advocate on behalf of my fellow student-athletes and local communities.”
Participation in this year’s theme set new standards, as student-athletes recorded a total of 1,016 service hours and achieved 100% team participation. In addition, they impacted more than 10 organizations throughout the semester. As the new semester begins, SDSU student-athletes eagerly anticipate continuing this momentum while remaining dedicated to serving the greater San Diego community.